Does anyone out there enjoy the DDR games and use them for a workout? My kids want to get the game and I've been researching it. It apparently has a "workout" mode and I have considered using it for something different to do in my workouts.

Any current users? What's the best version of the game to buy? Am I crazy for considering using it for a workout (my mom just rolled her eyes!)?

Thanks!

Sun. Mar 12, 4:17pm

I love it!!
Sure it's not as hard a workout as a hour long step aerobics class. But, it's loads of fun. You get hooked and wind up playing for hours. And, yes, its counts calories for every song you dance, based on your weight, which you set in the workout menu. I played yesterday for close to two hours and burned over 200 calories. The amount you burn will depend on what level you have the game set on - the higher levels are much harder work. I still only have my set to "light" - one step above beginner.
Even if you wind up not using it. It would be great exercise for your kids, much better than sitting on the couch playing video games :)

Monday, March 13, 2006, 6:40 AM

Yes!

This game is an EXCELLENT workout (something I've been telling people for years...) The problem with the at-home versions is the pad you have to buy for it wears out very quickly, and doesn't work for anything harder than light mode. Definately do not buy the 30 dollar ones. Go for at least a foam bottomed pad. It will last longer, and not bunch up. (When it bunches up the buttons don't work) They also don't stay put on carpet.

You may think that's not relevant for a beginner. But if you get hooked, you will progress to the harder levels pretty fast!

-Phinneas

Monday, March 13, 2006, 8:46 AM

It's a great workout! And, as you get better, the songs get harder, and you do way more jumping around. At this point, even if I'm only going to play for 20 minutes or so, I have to put on a sports bra b/c I jump around so much, and shorts b/c I get so hot! And it's a fun way to play with your kids!!

I second the pad idea though. I have the $30 pads, on my 3rd set of them actually (the cat got to one set, and the other just died) - I would've been better off just buying nice ones to start with!

Tuesday, March 14, 2006, 11:01 AM

OP Here...

I've looked at some of them online - do I want to get the ones with the 1" foam inserts? We can't afford the metal pads. They do look more sturdy, but just aren't a practical expenditure right now.

Tuesday, March 14, 2006, 3:19 PM

If you go to your local game store (gamestop, ebgames, etc) They have ones that are made of foam. I don't have much experience with the foam insert ones. But having tore some of them apart (yes, I disected them for the circuit board so I could build my own metal pad), the foam insert doesnt seem like such a great idea either. But hey, anything's better than the cheap plastic slipery ones.

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